Jocelyn Malla of Coral Harbour is the grand prize winner of the 2026 Qilaut Inuktut songwriting contest. A professionally recorded compilation album featuring the 10 winning songs will be recorded for distribution next winter. (Photo courtesy of Jocelyn Malla)
Coral Harbour songwriter’s entry wins Inuktut songwriting contest
This year’s Qilaut contest drew 21 entries from across Nunavut
A Coral Harbour songwriter has won the Government of Nunavut’s 2026 Qilaut Inuktut songwriting contest.
Jocelyn Malla took first place with Tukisivunga, earning an $8,000 prize, the Nunavut Department of Culture and Heritage announced Wednesday. Malla also placed fifth with her song Kamatsiaqta.
The annual contest celebrates Inuktut music and promotes the use of Inuit languages. This year’s theme, Avatiliriniq, focused on respect and care for the land, animals and environment, a department news release said.
A panel of three judges assessed 21 submissions on originality, creativity, melody and lyrics.
Grace Metuq of Pangnirtung placed second with Unikkaaqtuat Ilinniinngaaqtut, winning $3,500. Looee Arreak and Lorraine Akulukjuk of Iqaluit took third place with Piruqsatillunga, earning $2,500. The seven other entries each receive $1,000.
The other winner are:
- Fourth place: Uumaniq by Kristy Kanayuk, Iqaluit;
- Fifth place: Kamatsiaqta by Jocelyn Malla, Coral Harbour;
- Sixth place: Nunami Quvianaqtuq by Jacob and Eva Okatsiak and Eden Napayok, Arviat;
- Seventh place: Alianait by Monica Qattalik, Igloolik;
- Eighth place: Tariuq Tautuglavut by Princess Kusugak, Rankin Inlet;
- Ninth place: Ikpigilavut by Letia and Rebecca Kalluk, Arctic Bay;
- Tenth place: Sivulitta by Terry Uyarak, Igloolik;
All 10 winning songs will be professionally recorded for a compilation album scheduled for release in winter 2027. Three concerts will be held throughout Nunavut to celebrate the winners.
Qilaut has supported the creation and release of more than 100 songs and 11 albums over the years, the department’s website said.
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